Paw Prints: Living in the City

Table of contents :
INTRODUCTION
Domestication
Rural and Urban Livelihoods The Life of Pets
Animals at Work
Urban Wildlife Human-Wildlife Conflict Global and Local Contexts Climate Change Wildlife-friendly cities Urban Public Health
Delhi's Animals
Activities
Resources

Citation preview

FOR FORALL ALL AGES AGES

Vol. 4

Living in the city * The Delhi edition By Shriya Malhotra

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It’s a battle over space and resources! ...These humans built a water-clogged maze

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Domestication Rural and Urban Livelihoods The Life of Pets Animals at Work Urban Wildlife Human-Wildlife Conflict Global and Local Contexts Climate Change Wildlife-friendly cities Urban Public Health Delhi's Animals Activities Resources

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INTRODUCTION Sometimes, conflict resolution begins with understanding the world around us. The 2020 pandemic has shown the inter-connections of health with the surrounding environment. Cities have been inhabited and built as places for people to live in; but animals, birds and other forms of life survive, and even thrive, in cities. Which is only fair, since cities have been constructed on to their natural habitats. Species that are smaller, have general diets, and are intelligent or adaptable, are suited to city life. Many wild species of different organisms have learned behaviors to help them survive in urban areas. Scientists study and document them, because understanding wildlife in cities can help people learn to live with them, instead of at their expense. Differences are important for biodiversity and ecological balance. New Delhi is a capital city with diverse plant and animal wildlife, given its many ecosystems; animals spill into the streets due to deforestation, while others are employed to manage city tasks. There are many things we can do to make our city or neighborhood a better place for other forms of life— and also for our communities. Since the national capital region spills over into vastly different geographic and temperature zones, managing conflict is a valuable research topic. The best part is - you and your friends can be a part of it! Start by understanding wildlife behaviors and identifying sites of conflict in the ecosystem.

Domestication /dəmɛstɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n/ noun The process of taming an animal and keeping it as a pet or on a farm / the cultivation of a plant for food.

Domestication is the process of adapting wild plants and animals for human use. Domestic species are raised for food, work, clothing, medicine, etc. Many different species are domesticated for urban and rural purposes. Depending on the geographic region, these could include fish, birds and other mammals.

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Animals and birds were specifically domesticated by humans for food, transport, communication—and also as companions. Domesticated dogs, cats, goats, horses and cattle have been bred to live among humans. They are genetically different from ancestors or relatives who lived in 'the wild’ or natural habitats. Overtime, they have had to adjust to human behaviors and our built environment.

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Plant and animal species are reared for rural and urban livelihoods, food and protection. Rural to urban employment shifts and networked migrations have shifted these, too.

Rural and Urban Livelihoods

Defense and medical organizations have historically employed animals, which is one reason why many horse-stables feature in the architecture in major capital cities like London, Moscow and Delhi. Look at your city’s infrastructure for clues about animals throughout history. Service animals provide people with companionship and security. Assistant dogs for the blind or drug-sniffing security dogs are bred and used for specific behaviors and strengths. This is unlike war-time animals who are bred for other instincts. In Delhi, it is not uncommon to see horses in traffic as part of a regiment, or a wedding baraat. If you've ever eaten outdoors during the winter, you know to guard your plate from theft by cats and kites. Whether between different animals, or humans and animals, conflicts continue to erupt over basics: water, space and food. Ignoring our role in polluting and altering the environment through management of infrastructure and services -- specifically waste and waste systems -- has given rise to epidemics. More: https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2021.566272

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Animals at Work Animals are employed and used for specific behaviors including their food chain position. During the World Wars, for example, pigeons worked as couriers. At petrol pumps, metro stations and as historic monuments, large birds are often deployed to keep smaller ones away. Similarly, larger primates are used to scare away smaller ones across urban India. Attention to wildlife is often lost in the labyrinths of human constructions and other infrastructure. Inside airport terminals, birds fly in and around before getting stuck. Animals have a complex relationship with the encroachment of human infrastructure. The Moscow metro system has many small monuments as homage to animals in service, particularly dogs. In 2021, a war memorial was being planned in the city of Meerut, dedicated to the dogs, horses and mules that have served and lost their lives in battle. Statues of mythological, literary and real-life animal heroes in cities remind us of their roles. Some metro stations in Moscow use a bird alarm over loudspeaker to prevent smaller birds from entering. Sightings of traveling stray dogs is common, in search of warmth and food.

More:

www.xeno-canto.org/mysteries?order=elev &dir=0&view=3&mystview=&pagenumber= 2&pg=424 https://lidenz.ru/hidden-dogs-moscow/

The Life of Pets

The city, in many ways, is a concrete jungle. And like their owners, pets also experience the negative effects of urbanization: noise, pollution, trash and toxicity. Except, their experiences are often amplified because of their sensitivities. Human encroachment on wild and natural habitats threatens food and water sources for all. Particularly pollution and other toxins that get biomagnified. Male fish mutations are an example of how the health of a city is reflected in its wildlife, and how we are affected by waste management1. Skinny dogs in Gurgaon are a sign of malnourishment and dehydration. Sweater-clad goats and dogs straddle the line of being part wild and part domesticated and culturally valued. 1

Fish are believed to have developed female organs due to hormone-skewing pollution in the river. Rivers are the city's lifeline, in the same way that water is a source of life for all living things. 9

Pets are exceptional at reducing their carers stress, anxiety, and depression. Their presence helps deal with loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve their owners' cardiovascular health. Caring for an animal can help children grow up to be more secure and active. Pets are also valuable companions to the elderly or differently-abled.

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Cuddling pets releases oxytocin: the 'feel good' hormone. This helps lower heart-rates and releases of dopamine, the hormone which reduces depression and pain. Hugging pets is nice for you and for them too: it is calming, and lets them know that you appreciate their loyalty and companionship.

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Urban Wildlife Certain species do better in cities due to their options for food, shelter, and protection. They live longer, have more offspring, and get more to eat than they could in other habitats. They are called synurbic species. Pigeons and rabbits are good examples of city thrivers. Wild peregrine falcons use tall urban buildings for nesting sites, man-made lighting to hunt at night, and warm air currents created by the sun on urban surfaces helps them fly with less effort! More: https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2021.566272

Pigeons are synurbic and evolved from rock doves, who would nest in rocky cliffs. They find and perch on any kinds of city infrastructure edges: window sills, AC units, ducts, pipes, scaffolding. They eat almost anything, and access an endless supply of food from landfills and trash sites.

Are you ok with sharing spaces? They prefer species that can clean up after themselves. I’ve heard you’re a graffitist

However, they tend to multiply so fast that they could become an invasive species affecting genetic variation. Also, their droppings cause salmonella poisoning in humans. And they poop. A lot. Everywhere. Know of good housing?

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Human-Wildlife Conflict Humans are now trending on protein diets and eating most of the veggies.

Cities offer a convenient source of food for wild and domesticated animals. Some organisms thrive, as they are resourceful and adaptable, but this varies by geography, region and urbanization rates. Often, humans and animals enter conflict situations. This is because humans have displaced animal habitats with their dominant and exclusionary construction of urban habitat and systems. Flyovers, highways, skyscrapers and the built environments transport and services infrastructure individually and cumulatively affect plant and wildlife. They wanna be like us. They just wanna be free -

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With the expansion of cities, humans have come into increased interaction and conflict with other species. Many encounter each other for the first time in these new habitats.

My ancest or … Roams fre e

Urban peripheries like suburbs have historically been sites of human wildlife conflict. It's not uncommon to hear of deer and coyotes in north american suburban yards -- as well as other animals that tend to get stuck or injured attempting to cross roads and highways.

N

? town n i ew

Yup — I love the smell of rain on concrete

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Statistics are currently unavailable for Indian birds. But, small actions can help them: keeping lights off in tall buildings so as not to attract or confuse them is one. Or making bird boxes for them to safely shelter in. What are other considerate things you can do for the biome you occupy?

Human-Wildlife conflict is a way of understanding the food chain in cities. Sometimes, the conflict is between wild and domesticated animals; like when fox prey on domesticated chicken, or mongoose who devour snakes, or monkeys that break in to search the fridge. Or cats steal morning milk packets in apartment building-complexes. Other times, it's a protective or self preservation mechanism: if you take eggs from a birds nest, for instance, don't be surprised if it comes to peck at you! Or if you step on an ant-hill and get bitten, well, you did just destroy their home.

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GAH! Where do I land?

Human-wildlife conflicts date to human prehistory. Wildlife are known for eating crops or garden plants, attacking pets, or spreading diseases through their waste. Think of the insects that feed on your plants People have tried to address their relationships with the wild through design and other interventions. In Delhi, several major wildlife crossings are being planned; although, some suggest new constructions are problematic. A better solution is 'rewilding'. Honk!

Honk!

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Many people have accidentally hit animals with their cars. This is not only dangerous for the animals, but can also be dangerous for us if the animal is large — like a deer or a cow. When animals feel threatened, they may attack humans and their pets. With better understanding, we can try to stop these conflicts from happening, which is another reason why citizen scientists can help to study urban wildlife. Animals do a lot of things that help the ecosystems they live in. Bats eat moths and mosquitoes that bother us (although mosquitoes are important pollinators like bees, wasps, and other insects.) Predators like coyotes, foxes, and hawks eat mice and rats, which often carry diseases. Mongoose eat snakes. These helpful actions are called ecosystem services. Apart from the birds and mammals, insects and other microbes form a part of the biomes of our body and city. They help with many aerobic and anaerobic processes including decomposition and egestion. Things to look into!

Nature and wildlife help clean our air and water, provide us with food, and resources to improve our health. However, our ways of living are in conflict when waste and consumption of resources and space is unregulated. Unfortunately, much of the prevalent town planning theory that exists has often been utilitarian in its approach to the environment. Rather than seeing ourselves as a part of it, we impose and use it for our ends without considering the needs of other forms of life. We need to evaluate how our lifestyles can benefit nature and wildlife, while not posing a threat to the planet or ecosystems we live in.

Over 3/4 of the world’s population now live in urban areas:, but our habitats are increasingly incompatible -- "unfair, unfriendly, and often deadly" -- with those of the various species that lived there first. More: https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/news/how-our-planet-became-more-urbanised-ever

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Global and Local Contexts The manifestation and magnitude of conflict is different depending on the region. Developed regions have lower dependency on forest ecosystems and management systems for wilderness areas. This limits interactions between humans and wildlife to specific areas. Incidents leading to conflict occur mostly only in urban and suburban areas. In developed areas, human and wildlife conflict is less about limited resources and more about how wildlife activities interfere with people's lifestyles. Developing areas like in Asia and Africa have a greater propensity for human and wildlife conflict due to biodiversity. Specific conditions: high levels of dependence on forest ecosystems and the prevalence of poverty and inequality. This has often led to unsustainable forest resource extractions, and widespread conversion of forests into agricultural land. Cultural symbiotic relationships are also being lost due to imported notions of development. These agricultural or rural lands are rapidly being converted to urban or built up space to accommodate the growing needs for human habitats.

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Across Asia, forest were primarily lost due to conversion to cash crop plantations. This 'overlapping resource use' increased the interactions between humans and wildlife, leading to more conflict. Conflict in developing world cities will likely increase in the future. Growing demands and construction of human settlements, outdoor recreation, and increases in urbanized species that have adapted to living in human-designed cities will contribute to more interaction and ultimately … conflicts of interest. More: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S 2287884X17300262

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All That Breathes is a 2022 award-winning film, exploring human and wildlife relations in Delhi. 26

Climate Change The Holocene extinction is known as the sixth mass extinction or Anthropocene extinction. It is the ongoing extinction event of species during the present Holocene epoch (with the more recent time sometimes called Anthropocene) — as a result of human activity. Many families of plants and animals —including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates —are going extinct. With widespread degradation of highly biodiverse habitats such as coral reefs and rainforests, as well as other areas, the majority of these extinctions are thought to be undocumented. Causes of Extinction Climate Change Asteroid Strikes Invasive Species Loss of Habitat Lack of Genetic Diversity Better-Adapted Competition Disease Human Predation Pollution

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The growth of human populations worldwide and associated environmental changes has meant wildlife populations live in "anthropogenically modified landscapes". Thus, higher contact rates and interactions often result in conflict — one of the greatest challenges of the Anthropocene era. To date, knowledge of human–wildlife interactions was limited to visible aspects of such interactions, and their effects on wildlife systems: human activities such as “provisioning animals, habitat fragmentation, and trapping/culling/relocation of animals” affect wildlife population demographics and species decline —as well as behaviors related to foraging and movement, space-use, and social interactions. However, researchers know less about whether, how and to what extent differences in the attributes and behavior of wild animals “influence their tendencies to engage in interactions with humans and anthropogenic factors”. n n

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-78881-3 28

Wildlife-friendly Cities Some cities are planned with wildlife well-being in mind. These cities provide shelter, food, water, and ways for animals to move throughout the city safely. London is one such city. Conservationists like Sir David Attenborough in the UK encourage wilding places for wildlife to coexist with humans.

The bird

Her nest

Meanwhile, Delhi's Pradip Krishen has been documenting the city’s flora for decades, in an example of citizen science and conservation. Similarly the New Delhi Nature Society plan walks throughout the city to observe natural wonders. Conservation and environmental and biological sciences it seems are also informed by colonial legacy. 29

In 2012, Russian President Vladimir Putin dressed up to fly in an effort to lead the wayward, migrating Siberian cranes.

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Still from Not Just Roads (2021), a short film which documents aspects of urbanisation around Delhi.

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Ten years ago, the Indian house sparrow was proclaimed Delhi's state bird to raise awareness of its declining population. It was as common as the pigeons we see now. In 2020, there was a slight improvement in numbers! It may be the case that pigeons are simply better adapted, and that sparrows are one of many species that goes extinct. The truth is, humans are only aware of about 1% of existing life-forms. Most go extinct or existed without notice by us. Realms of the ocean and microbes remain unexplored for life. Our egos and food chain position clearly relate.

Urban Public Health Issues Urban Lifestyles Urban services and infrastructure Conflict management Sharing habitats Inter species risk of disease Biospheres and Ecological Balance Toxicity, risk and biomagnification Conflict is a public health concern.

Urban public health considers the health of the city as an ecosystem with connections between various human and animal life forms. Examining the diverse biospheres and their constituents balance — of life, food, egestion - is important. The main cause of human-wildlife conflict are human settlement, agricultural expansion, illegal grass collection, overgrazing by livestock and deforestation in national park. In an urbanizing planet, understanding the ways in which wellbeing and care are connected is crucial.

More: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2287884X17300262

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An unprecedented shift in human population is one reason why more diseases originate in Asia and Africa. Rapid urbanization is occurring throughout Asia and the Pacific regions, where 60% of the world already lives. This means both migration of people and constructions of the built environment. That aside, all living beings tend to have a protective mechanism to survive or to thrive which comes at the expense of another — plants have thorns or poisons; predator animals have jaws; reptiles have venom etc. Humans currently sit at the top of the food chain, largely unchallenged but continually fighting amongst themselves. War is a public health issue, too. https://www.audubon.org/magazine /fall-2020/how-migrating-birds-could -warn-us-next-pandemic

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Urbanization, Urban Development and Urban Planning

Health relates to urbanization, urban planning design and consumption/ density and transmissible disease are all connected. India has witnessed a significant transformation in land-use change, and also of increased land area under protection. Planned parks, restricted forests and sanctuaries now constitute biodiversity areas within the national capital region. How does urban planning affect public health? In a myriad of ways — allocation of space, built and unbuilt environments, resources and their protections. Consideration of the environment is what directs services and infrastructure as well as things such as recurring infectious diseases and epidemics: cholera, dysentery, malnourishment, typhoid, tuberculosis, malaria — water and mosquito borne diseases form the bulk of issues faced in cities apart from lifestyle related health issues like obesity, cardiovascular health, chronic dehydration. Nutrition and hunger also relate to food chain quality.

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Solid Waste Management and Disease 28.5122° N, 77.2833° E

A 2021 Google Map review of the Yamuna landfill. An example of citizen sarcasm. 37

Waste

28°35'36.14''N 77°15'22.23''E www.wastetowonderpark.com

City waste management contributes to the economy by creating livelihoods for people and as a raw material for other products. Urban waste also produces new human–animal ecologies involving livestock and wild birds. It also contributes to climate change and can become a breeding site for diseases. Waste as feed creates complex spatial relationships between animals, humans and their wastes; high densities of animals and humans leads to conflict over waste; and emerging threats of diseases spilling across social and physical barriers between animals and humans mediated by waste. All of this affects the health of urbanised life forms. During the 2020 pandemic many services came to a halt as the city’s rhythms stalled with humans staying put.:

https://www.epw.in/journal/2019/47/review-urban-affairs/u rban-waste--human-animal-interface-delhi.html

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Delhi’s Animals: Life during COVID-19 A side effect of the pandemic has been natural rewilding of spaces. Roaming in search of food, and given the decreased human activity --- animals and birds were found frolicking in unusual spaces. From dangling langurs in Shimla to roaming horses in Jammu & Kashmir, to dancing peahen in Delhi and sleepy stray dogs comfortably occupying 39 crosswalks in the national capital region.

Elephants 30°22′N 77°32′E

During the 2020 lockdown, wild animals like leopards, tigers and elephants began to expand their territory as human movement ceased. After the first lockdown ended and as restrictions were eased, people entered these newly expanded territories and came in contact with wildlife, resulting in human-animal conflicts. Surinder Singh Elephant Rehabilitation Centre at Ban Santoor in Haryana treats rescued abused, exploited or sick elephants. It is home to Laxmi, a 47 year old elephant. Elephant sightings have become increasingly rare in the city as wildlife habitats get pushed out. In 2020 in the state of Uttarakhand, 62 people died and 286 were injured due to leopard attacks, snake bites, elephant and bear attacks. Forest Department data showed that over half of the human deaths in wildlife conflicts in 2020 were in the last four months of the year, when people returned to city-life after the pandemic-induced lockdown.

More: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/uttarakhandu-62-dead-in-human-animal-conflict-in-2020-over-half-in-sept-dec-7168324/

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Snakes 28.6044359°N 77.2461981°E

A common example of human wildlife conflict is snakes bites. Most cases are reported during the monsoon season due to rise in sightings of snakes. Snake species are often burrowing reptiles and spend time underground and, but during the monsoons they are forced to shelter above ground when their homes get destroyed due to floodwater. Delhi Zoo has a reptile house which has many on display. But, as anyone that's been in jail knows, it is the least comfortable living environment. MORE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/delhis-city-snak es/article29910655.ece https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/new-research-records-8-more-sp ecies-of-snakes-in-delhi-number-rises-to-23-101621750155903.html

Nilgai s 28.4895885°N 77.2132106°E Wildlife can get injured when in contact with man-made structures or infrastructure - electrocution for instance is often caused among species like monkeys and raptor birds. With people confined to their houses because of the Covid-19 lockdown, Noida’s mall mile had an unlikely visitor stroll in in 2020: a nilgai. The animal ambled up to the one of gates of The Great India Place Mall but wasn’t the only visitor from the wild. A group of deer was seen in the vicinity of the Sector 150 later that day.

Cows 28°39'27"N, 77°7'23"E

Ubiquitous and stereotypical in many Indian cities, cows are often considered sacred, to the point the trash bag and garbage rules were largely to favor the animals who were often found feeding at landfills and MCD dumpsites. The other reason they are often seen roaming the streets is our urban trajectory. The loss of their farmland to make way for concrete based construction of people habitats has meant they have to find road spaces to roam in. Their feces is rich in manure, but in the city it is a site for flies to feed and then spread disease by sitting on or contaminating food— in addition to dairy products they produced, their role seems healthier in rural areas. In cities, like people, they face a myriad of issues related to pollution.

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Khan market is the world's most expensive commercial real estate. It was established for merchants to start up after partition - as a market for refugees. It is also a place where you find many street dogs looked after by merchants. Dogs here seem to live a fairly luxurious life. These dogs are well-fed, clothed and even match-made. Mostly found in lush coats in the winter, they sleep across the pavements, and in front of luxury shops, almost like sleeping guards. A friend noted that he thought they were dead as they lie so still and are so comfortable around people. Sometimes, they sleep on cars at night, and are given their food and medicines from local stores. It is not uncommon in Indian cities to find grains and water or other food left out to feed animals. There is a symbiosis between humans and wild nature.

Dogs 28.6002° N, 77.2270° E 44

Pigeons

28.5203° N 77.1834° E

28.6260° N 77.2250° E

Small alcoves in the walls (probably meant to keep earthen lamps or lanterns) suggest that the stepwell was a reservoir and a place for social gatherings. Now, only pigeons perch on them, frequently fluttering from one recess to another, interrupting the silence. And the occasional tourist couples. Apart from breathtaking view of the ancient structure, the roof of many monuments are a resting place for many: birds, stray dogs looking for a peaceful sleep under the shade of the trees. From the roof, one can spot a well at the back of the baoli, well guarded by iron bars and filled with dirt, muck and hardly any water. Breathing dust or water droplets containing contaminated droppings can lead to diseases, including a flu-like illness called psittacosis. Salmonella - a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhoea - may also be present in some bird droppings. They also damage monuments. 45

Wild Boar 30.74°N 76.81°E

Pigs roaming unchecked in Gurgaon is a cause of concern for residents. Pigs are seen roaming, feeding on and scattering garbage dumped on vacant plots. They are multiplying at a frightening rate. Their owner families allow them to roam freely during the day in spite of a six month jail sentence. Since it is a non cognisable offence, the police can’t take action against repeat offenders. Pigs and boars exemplify the human wildlife conflict and ecosystem services. They do not just destroy crops, they feed on waste.

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Goats are found in predominantly muslim areas sold in informal markets or wild landscapes. Sellers from across the country flock the Bakra Mandi or goat market of Jama Masjid to get the best price for their goats.

Goats 28.5196° N, 77.1871° E

Wild goats are often spotted roaming the 1.5 billion year old Aravalli range. And for the festival of Eid, sacrificial goats are offered by the Muslim community around the world. people around Delhi visit Jama Masjid, the biggest goat market of Delhi-NCR. It's not unusual in winters to see them sporting t-shirts and sweaters to keep warm and fatten up. https://www.theguardian.com/world/galleryu/2020/apr/22/animals-roa ming-streets-coronavirus-lockdown-photos

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Indian Palm Squirrel 28.5931° N 77.2197° E

The wild Indian palm squirrel is a furry and small rodent, with a flat tail and white stripes on its back. They are often found collecting for the winter and running around gardens. Although friendly creatures, they may carry diseases. Their activity tends to peak in the morning and late afternoon-evening when they feed before retiring for the day. They are omnivorous, and relish a menu full of ‘dishes’ like bark, buds, young shoots, fruits, seeds, insects, eggs of insects and birds; they relish tree sap. They sometimes resort to scavenging— feeding on the remains of termites, beetles, moths and wasps.

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Monkeys 28.4762°N, 77.23°E

Delhi has had a monkey ‘problem’ for years: Macaque monkeys have raided the foreign office, and jokes are that they are Pakistan-trained. Years of effort to rid Delhi’s 26 sq km zone of monkeys have been ineffective. People attempting to trap them are either beaten up or chased away. Hindu religious sentiment associates monkeys with Lord Hanuman. Feeding them is ritual and shooting them is sacrilegious, leading to unique strategies to deal with the issue. Y Y https://www.google.co.in/amp/s/www.tribuneindia.co m/news/musings/in-this-business-monkeys-hold-sway35441 Rhesus macaque monkeys frequently break into homes in search of food, restless due to deforestation. The problem persists, in part due to a confusion over who's responsible for catching monkeys or sterilising them -- civic bodies or the forest department.

https://india.mongabay.com/2019/10/monitoring-monkey-business-i n-delhi/ https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/musings/in-this-business-monke ys-hold-sway-35441 https://www.google.co.in/amp/s/www.news18.com/amp/news/buzz/ watch-monkeys-joy-ride-in-delhi-metro-leaves-desi-twitter-amused-3 873635.html

https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/monkey-menace-i n-delhi-confusion-over-jurisdiction-keeps-problem-alive-58248 58 https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/as-covid -loosens-grip-focus-on-monkey-biz/articleshow/8091 3770.cms

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Monkeys impact health in human settlements and have adapted to the urban environment. Although the Delhi government spends about Rs. 80000000/ year to feed monkeys, many have died of starvation -- particularly at sanctuaries. This shows that their natural methods of acquiring foods needs to be supported. Rather than teaching them new ways of feeding, humans need to work with their behaviors. This needs to be done with caution though, as monkey were used to break in and rob people resulting in the arrest of two men in Chirag Delhi in 2021.X

The capital recorded 867 cases of monkey bites in 2018. From: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/hardlook-ma n-vs-monkey-born-to-be-wild-delhi-forest-department-525 1406/

x

https://www.livemint.com/news/india/delhi-t wo-men-arrested-for-using-monkeys-to-rob-p eople-11617954227861.html

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Bats

28.5315°N 77.2197°E

Bats are nocturnal mammals, who cool down by periodically dipping into pools of water. They are visible every night in Delhi near the lake near Hauz Khas and other Delhi monuments, where groups find spaces to hang out or roost undisturbed during the day. They play an essential ecosystem service through seed dispersal. An ‘integrated management policy’ for Delhi’s archaeological monuments and the insect-eating bats that roost inside them has been proposed by conservators. There is evidence that the ecosystem services provided by insect-eating bats in agricultural fields are of economic importance— which is likely to increase as chemical pest-control methods become inefficient due to evolving multi-resistance in insects. The bats roosting inside the monuments should be protected rather than poisoned, while mitigating potential conflicts with archaeological and touristic interests." "fear" of bats can be turned into curiosity through education and their presence should be considered in terms of how they enhance the value of the sites. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhiwale-the-rush-hour-bats-1016171443 87767.html https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330968277_The_Monumental_Mistake_of_Evicting_B ats_from_Archaeological_Sites-A_Reflection_from_New_Delhi 51

Geese 28.5550° N 77.1916° E

Domestic geese are often used as a guard animal; and they are uniquely suited to this as their piercing honks make excellent alarms. They are protective and naturally suited for guard work. Geese can see ultraviolet light, and their vision is so good that they can sense movement long before a person can. Most birds don’t react to what they see in a way that is helpful to people, but geese do. They sound off loudly and aggressively. Geese are very territorial: they know where their home is, and they defend it, especially during mating and hatching season. Few domesticated birds share the same territorial tendencies, and fewer still have the attitude for attacking intruders. Many animals need no training for their jobs. If natural propensity matches the role. https://hellohomestead.com/why-geese-are-good-guard-animals/

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Leopards 28.4762°N 77.23°E

Predators like leopards don’t just find their food; they chase it. Recently one was found in the Yamuna Biodiversity park, which is attempting to rewild the area. It was caught and removed purportedly for the safety of people and itself. (The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, states that a wild animal can only be captured if it has been proven to be a danger to human life). Urbanization, rapid habitat encroachment and deforestation are changing the boundaries between forest and urban areas. As a result, the incidents of wild animals straying into urban area are increasing. In 2003, a leopard snuck into Delhi's Saket mall. According to the Wildlife Institute (WII) of India, five NCR districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Mewat, Rewari and Mahendragarh are home to 31 leopards, 166 jackals and 126 hyenas.

Human-leopard conflicts are frequent, and need better management.

Wildlife enthusiasts are pleased as it establishes nearly four-fold increase in the population of the rare cat in the 126 sqkm forest area since 2012. 53

Feral Cats 77 14 19.73 E 28 34 51.49 N

Stray or feral cat once lived indoors and socialized with people; but at some point, got left or got lost or abandoned and began living on the streets. These stray cats are often seen residing around residential colonies and markets — where they access food and sunny spots to nap. Many owners tend to leave food out for them, which is how they forge symbiotic relationships (they keep rats and mice away!) There are 91 00000 street cats in India. The State of Pet Homelessness Index data revealed a high prevalence of stray populations, which is bringing the country's 'All Pets Wanted' score down.

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Rats 28.6606° N 77.2271° E

Rats are rodents that may carry Salmonella and can cause illness in humans and pets. They are carriers of the plague: an infectious fever caused by Yersinia pestis. The disease is transmitted by contact with a rat flea. This is an example of how disease spreads among species. Infection in humans occurs by consuming food or water contaminated with rodent faeces. The common household mouse and pet rodents can become infected after contact with wild mice. The existence of medical and other solid waste makes the spread of contaminants easier in urban environments. 55

Birds 28°39'20.0"N 77°14'10.1"E

Kites, vultures, crows, babblers, mynahs, peacocks, pigeons and sparrows are some of the birds you find in and around the city. Look out for fallen feathers to figure out who is around. Okhla Bird sanctuary along the Yamuna and Lodhi Gardens is home to many feathery friends -- and also to incredible waste spectacles.

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Camels

28°21'45.5"N 77°11'15.6"E

The Bikaner Camel Corps is part of India's paramilitary Border Security Force. Known as “warships” of the desert, they are bred and traded at the Pushkar camel fair every November. It is said that Emperor Akbar and the maharajas of Rajasthan established camel corps for warfare in the 16th century. Fascinatingly, along the coasts of Gujarat, these "ships of the desert" take to the sea! It's not unusual to see camels along Delhi highways, heading towards Rajasthan. Both Hindu and Muslim camel pastoralists say camels are like their children, and are never used for meat or sold to slaughter. Traditionally, they never sell camel milk, and have often given it away for free. Arguably, the survival of domesticated livestock and livelihoods depends on profitability.

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Take a Nature Walk or Eco-Hike Photograph or sketch plants and wildlife, their patterns, print marks or droppings! Measure the length and width of prints. Measure the stride (length between prints) and the straddle (width between prints), this can give you an idea of how quickly it was moving. Look for a heel, count the number of toes and look for claw-marks. Follow and note any patterns. In addition to wildlife, pay attention to the weather: notice emissions, pollution and climate patterns overtime. Walks are a great way to notice and pick up litter while observing and documenting your ecosystem. Exploration is always an adventure! Can you forage for edible plants — or notice the fringes of municipal delineations?

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Who Goes There?! All organisms ingest and excrete food. Poop is a subject of legal and interspecies conflict. In Delhi, many resident welfare associations fine pet owners for not picking up after their animals. But, excreta can tells us what animal species are in an area. And the color, shape and texture give us clues about what an animal has (or has not) been eating —and about their health.

Bird = white and grey liquid (a urine and feces mix)

Lizard = solidblack with a white tip Cow = often flat, circular

DID YOU KNOW! Herbivores create “floater” poop while most tigers and other carnivores create “sinkers.” Bigger animals have longer feces, and defecate at higher speed. Wombats poop … cubes. Copromancy: the diagnosis of health based on the shape, size and texture of feces.

Horse = a pile of solid balls 60

Raise Awareness

May 21 is National Endangered Species Day. The Second Saturday of May is International Migratory Bird Day. August 27 is international dog day. Unofficially, everyday is Earth Day! Celebrate your planet and its biospheres. 7

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Asiatic Lion Bengal Tiger Snow Leopard Nilgiri Tahr Kashmiri Red Stag Blackbuck Single-horn rhino

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Take Action: Seed-balls

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Soak some seeds overnight in water or compost liquid. Discard the seeds that float. Measure in bowls: 5 parts soil + 1 part dry compost + 1 part seeds Mix the compost with the seeds, then slowly add in the dry soil. If wet, adjust the added water. Add water till it all binds together. Be careful not to make it too wet! Roll the mix into balls, the size of ping-pong balls. Leave them to dry overnight.

Take aim ! Throw the seeds balls in neglected and abandoned sites where plants can take root. The sites should have adequate soil and sunlight. If you can, record the coordinates of where it lands and try to return with water. Avoid throwing into agricultural sites as they may interfere with existing crops.

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Make a Nature Map 1. 2. 3. 4.

Print or hand-draw an image showing the geographic outline of a place. Try to zoom in to begin with: draw out your residential colony, apartment complex, or even your home. Pick one or two elements and mark them on the map to explore how they might affect population or environmental health. For example: mark all water sources and birds nests. Analyse what is revealed and write a short summary. Share your findings after checking with reliable sources to confirm your analysis.

ELEMENTS OF A MAP

1. 2. 3. 4.

A key to code the information on the image An outline showing major geographic landmarks, infrastructure, networks and flows A description of the scale A summary or description explaining the image

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There’s A lot To Do!

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Plant a tree, a community garden or food forest. Design animal feeders or homes Track an animal by drawing / recording its sounds. Observe a species over time and make it into a map. Set up a compost or vermicompost on your balcony / rooftop. Draw a "forage for food" map identifying free edible ingredients in your neighborhood. Start a local seed bank or humus network. Sprinkle wildflower seeds during nature walks. Try planting with cuttings instead of seeds. Construct interventions that help rather than limit biodiversity: eg. provide food and shelter and foster or heal injured animals.

Delhi’s Ghazipur landfill: a towering and smelly mountain of trash.

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Delhi’s Conservation Landscape 28.592190° N, 77.222648° E

Animals in Delhi do not just exist in conserved spaces that are planned for animals and birds — they are everywhere, and raise questions about how people and their activities are displacing populations rather than accepting them as parts of complex urban and human ecologies. A survey in 2019 found 15 species of mammals in the Aravalli forests of Gurugram, Faridabad, and Delhi, with relatively high densities observed in non-protected areas. These include rare species: the honey-badger, Indian fox, jungle cat, and ruddy mongoose x.

Many organizations work with animals in the city. A variety of NGOs, international organizations, community-based organizations, and media outlets, address a variety of aspects relating to environmental and public health in the city. Wildlife in the city are now counted using cameras

Mangar Bani, a sacred grove on the Delhi-Haryana boundary, has a rich diversity of flora and fauna and is crucial to the movement of leopards and other wildlife in the region.n Delhi is home to several bird sanctuaries, a butterfly park as well as biodiversity parks, and planned green spaces. https://india.mongabay.com/2021/03/small-mamm als-thrive-in-delhi-and-haryanas-aravallis/

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Resources Conservation Organizations New Delhi Nature Society World Wildlife Fund UN Environmental Program Wildlife Trust of India People for Animals International Society for Anthrozoology Wildlife SOS Wildlife Conservation Society Wildlife Protection Society of India Public and Environmental Health Institutes Public Health Foundation of India Indian Institute of Public Health - Delhi National Center for Disease Control Journalism Down to Earth Center for Science and the Environment

Wildlife Institute of India

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Dedication For Mama and Babu - who taught me to wonder. Kelly Garton, Ariel Fenster, David Harpp, and Joseph A. Schwarcz — who fostered a love of science and understanding the natural world.

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Thank You This activity book would not have been possible without: B, who got me to re-watch Planet Earth episodes with him. M, who inspired me to hang upside-down like a bat. D, who demonstrates wildness in his everyday life. MM, who shares my names and suggested I make more kids books. Global Flows crew - you know who you are. Thank you for our laughter. 2020 weekend art group who reminded me of the pricelessness of old friends. Copyright © 2021. All rights reserved by the author.

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